JobSOC 53-4022

Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers

Operate or monitor railroad track switches or locomotive instruments. May couple or uncouple rolling stock to make up or break up trains. Watch for and relay traffic signals. May inspect couplings, air hoses, journal boxes, and hand brakes. May watch for dragging equipment or obstacles on rights-of-way.

Definition from U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA) (O*NET 31.0 (August 2026)).

01.

Studied through

1 program

Railroad and Railway Transportation49.0208

02.

Draws on

Transportation4.3 of 5
Public Safety and Security4.0 of 5
Administration and Management3.6 of 5
English Language3.6 of 5

Importance as rated in O*NET (1 to 5); areas rated 3.5 or more, up to eight.